…and it kind of bums me out: Two members of Parliament-Funkadelic died recently… but I didn’t find out about it until yesterday!

First, Garry “Diaperman” Shider, P-Funk’s diaper-clad guitarist, died back in June at the age of 56. And this past Monday, guitarist Phelps “Catfish” Collins passed away at the age of 66. Learn more about Garry’s death here and Phelps’ death here.

Shider was also lovingly known by fans as “Starchild.” Collins, the brother of Bootsy Collins, also played guitar for James Brown in the J.B.’s.

Back in August 1997, I had an opportunity to see both Diaperman and Catfish perform with the P-Funk All-Stars on the Smokin’ Grooves tour. I’m glad I had that chance.

If you’re not familiar with either of these guys or their work check out some Parliament now! If you’re a fan of any rap or hip-hop that’s been created in the last thirty years, odds are they were influenced by George Clinton and his funky crew of misfits.